New York energy regulators have warned that changes in federal policy could hamper the state’s transition to clean energy, even as electricity demand is projected to rise significantly through 2040.
In a draft version of its long-term energy strategy released this week, the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA) said that “shifting priorities at the federal level are anticipated to impact long-term planning, investment decisions, and possibly the pace of transition to clean energy.”
The plan outlines energy policy priorities for the next 15 years and will now undergo a period of public consultation.
NYSERDA expects a notable increase in electricity consumption over the next two decades—a shift from what it described as “relatively flat electricity usage over the past decade.”
The authority cited political and regulatory uncertainty at the federal level, including tariff policies, as potential obstacles to securing clean energy investment. “The federal administration’s energy and unpredictable tariff policies bring additional political and regulatory uncertainty, which threatens critical federal support for clean energy development and creates barriers to private investment,” the report said.
“With the release of the Draft State Energy Plan, we are proactively planning for the energy needs of the future with a clear-eyed and comprehensive assessment of the current energy systems alongside projected energy demands and infrastructure needs,” said NYSERDA president and CEO Doreen Harris.
“Adaptability and resource diversity are key to ensuring New York’s energy abundance and affordability, which are reflected in the recommended actions contained in the Draft State Energy Plan that we are pleased to share for public review and feedback,” Harris added.
The final version of the State Energy Plan is expected to inform energy infrastructure decisions and regulatory strategy as New York pursues its climate and decarbonisation goals.
